If you are anything like me, you will think back, (through rose tinted glasses admittedly), to those halcyon days when as a child you would spend all day out on your bike, only coming home for tea when it was getting dark, and mum and dad would be pottering away in the garden. I would be told to wash my hands before sitting down to eat, because showers were what they did on the continent and weekly baths were still a thing in many households; I apologise if this is starting to sound like an episode of the 1970’s television series Ripping Yarns, but I have just turned 60, so some of you will have to bear with me while I reminisce.

Right, I’m back with you now….
 

Somewhat ironically, the fitness industry and gyms started to become more popular in the early 80’s just as the industry figured out that people were becoming less active and that the bike riding and gardening would have to be replaced with something else, something that would involve costly membership fees!

Because, of course, our bodies are designed to be in motion; they are not intended for a sedentary lifestyle, which has become more and more common in the age of TV, computers or gaming. Our bodies actually crave physical activity and need this in order to thrive, stay strong and function properly. I can honestly say that my body has never “craved exercise”, but you get the gist of what I am saying, I am sure!

In fact, simple activities such as walking and gardening are so important that they have been shown to contribute to the long, healthy lifespans of certain communities around the world, sometimes referred to as “Blue Zones”. After you have finished this article, I would suggest that you check out this video for a very interesting discussion by ZOE on this very subject.

Cases of obesity in both adults and children continue to rise, so regardless of age, gender or circumstances, a lifestyle that includes regular exercise of some form is an essential component of maintaining a healthy mind and body.

Of course, the precise type and frequency of exercise will depend on what is right for you, taking into account your current fitness level, abilities, state of health etc. Please remember that you should always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional before starting any radical changes to your diet or exercise regime.

The key is to avoid inactivity; even some exercise is better than none at all.

As the Halcyon team all advocate, a balanced diet is essential for a healthy mind and body, but exercise is equally important. Not only can it help us to improve our appearance, (through weight loss, shaping and toning), but more importantly it improves our chances of living a long and healthy life.

For example, while resistance and weight training is often seen as being only for bodybuilders or gym fanatics, they can help to strengthen the body. Not only does exercise improve your bone health, it also helps to increase muscle strength, coordination and balance. Great for all of us as we mature, as well as for those with back problems, osteoporosis or arthritis.

Exercise can also contribute to the longevity and quality of your life in other ways. In particular, it is a great immune-booster. For one thing, the body's lymphatic system (which acts like a garbage collection service by filtering the bloodstream of toxins and waste) relies on movement to keep it functioning. Unlike blood, which is pumped around by the heart, lymph fluid flows against gravity and 3 factors help to keep it moving:

1. contractions of smooth muscle in the lymph vessel walls
2. movements of the chest during breathing
3. contractions of surrounding skeletal muscles during exercise! This can increase lymph flow by as much as 10 to 15 times.

The lymphatic system is arguably the body's first line of defence against disease. By keeping it flowing efficiently through regular exercise, you can help to keep your toxic load down and your immune system strong.
 

Exercise also has a more direct impact on the prevention, management and treatment of a wide range of health conditions, including everything from heart disease and stroke, to Type 2 diabetes, obesity and hypertension. It can also help to improve circulation, bringing new fuel and energy to every cell.

Slow and steady wins the race

Please remember that a balanced diet and regular exercise should be viewed as long-term lifestyle changes, so there is no need to rush into anything or go to extremes in a short space of time. For many people, giving some thought to your daily meals and a tailored training program can offer support and guidance in the early stages.

I do hope that you have found this article useful. We exist as a company to support you in your journey towards a healthier and happier you, and as a reward for reading this article, here is a code BLOG10 for a 10% discount on your next purchase.
 

Anton at Halcyon Wellness